Pregnancy - Final Stages
<p><b>The basics of Water Birth</b></p><p><b>Considering water birth? Here’s what you need to know</b></p>
<p>There are many birthing options available today and a water birth is one of them.</p>
<p>The theory behind water birth is that since the baby has already been in the amniotic fluid sac for nine months, giving birth in a similar environment can be gentle for the baby and less stressful for you.</p>
<p><b>Waterbirth 101</b></p>
<p>During a water birth, you’ll be submerged in water. This is usually in a stationary or inflatable tub where you’ll birth your baby. This means at least a part of your labour, delivery, or both happen while you're in warm water.</p>
<p>This birthing option can be done at home, birth centre and hospital.</p>
<p><b>The benefits of water birth may include: </b></p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Less labour pain or your need for anaesthesia.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Decrease in the duration of labour.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Greater sense of control.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Less perineal trauma (damage to the area between the vagina and the anus during the birth of the baby).</p>
<p><b>Risks of water birth</b></p>
<p>This birthing method is not recommended for women who are in preterm labour or who have had two or more previous Caesarean section deliveries, or any of the following complications or symptoms:</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Maternal blood or skin infection.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Fever of 38°C or higher.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Excessive vaginal bleeding.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Difficulty tracing heartbeat or need for continuous tracing.</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>History of shoulder dystocia (when a baby's shoulder gets stuck behind the mother's pubic bone during birth).</p>
<p>•<span style="white-space:pre;"> </span>Carrying multiples.</p>
<p><b>Planning for your water birth</b></p>
<p>If you’re thinking about a water birth, talk to your doctor early in your pregnancy to find out if it’s a service the hospital provides.</p>
<p>Don’t worry if it’s not done at a hospital near you, you can go to a birthing centre or do it at home.</p>
<p>To better equip yourself, it will be best to reach out to friends or family who have had previous water births to learn more about their experiences.</p>
<p>Lastly, if you’re planning a water birth, it’s also a good idea to come up with a back-up plan in case you have complications as your pregnancy progresses, or during labour.</p>
